The Borgias: Alexander the Sixth (and related adaptations) chronicles the rise of Rodrigo Borgia to the papacy in the late 15th century, reigning as Pope Alexander VI. The series focuses on the political intrigue, scandal, corruption, and efforts of the Borgia family (including Cesare and Lucrezia) to maintain absolute power in Italy, often through cruel means, nepotism, and illicit relationships. The story highlights boundless ambition, with the Pope and his family acting more like ruthless political rulers than spiritual leaders, making it one of the most corrupt dynasties in the history of the Catholic Church.